When Does the Hornblower Boat Ride Open?

Hornblower Niagara, will be opening Friday, April 1st 2016. This is the earliest boat opening day in history. Even when the Maid of the Mist was operating in Niagara Falls, the opening day was never so early in April. Niagara Falls tour companies such as Niagara Tours, Toronto Tours, and King Tours are excite and hoping for record breaking sales. “The Hornblower boat ride, is our #1 selling attraction” says Kevin Lawrence of King Tours, which has been operating Niagara Falls Tours from Toronto since 1995. “We expect an early boost in sales”.

Bloggers attending TBEX Toronto will be heading to Niagara Falls June 4th 3rd (correction) 2013. TBEX, the world’s largest gathering of travel bloggers, writers, and new media content creators, will be holding their 2013 North American Conference at the Metro Convention Centre in Toronto, Canada on May 31 to June 2nd 2013. The following day, all major Niagara Falls tour operators like King Tours, Toronto Tours, and Niagara Tours will be hosting many of these bloggers for a FREE Niagara Falls tour.

Bloggers who wish to participate must apply for the free Niagara Falls tour on Tourism.to.

Tour Date: June 4th 2013.

Time: The tour will depart at 9 am. Return to Toronto around 6 pm. We can not guarantee the return time. Please keep this in mind if you have a flight scheduled that evening.

Departure Location: The tour bus will depart and return from 2 locations. The Delta Chelsea Hotel and the Best Western Primrose Hotel.

Hey Toronto! Planning on celebrating New Year’s at Nathan Phillips Square again? Why not do something a little more exciting this year? Grab a few friends and drive down to Niagara Falls! The drive is only about 2 hours and the party here is going to be much better!

This highly anticipated free show begins at 7:30 p.m 2012 in Queen Victoria Park overlooking mighty Niagara Falls. Electro-pop trio Dragonette will take the stage, followed by a high-energy performance by multiple JUNO Award-winning Vancouver rock group Hedley. Chart-topping GRAMMY® Award winner Nelly Furtado will keep the crowd dancing as the clock ticks down to midnight. The performers, along with the hosts, will gather onstage to countdown to 2013.

Recent studies indicate that the divorce rate in Canada has been declining slightly in recent years, but statisticians note that, in conjunction with the reduction in the divorce rate, there is also a higher rate of partners who live together (and then separate with no necessary formal divorce proceedings). In addition, media observers are also observing a form of “self-motivated therapy” that may be keeping some couple from divorcing by posting anonymous messages on Internet sites to vent frustrations and concerns.

Therapists point out that these postings are, in many ways, quite healthy. They allow an aggrieved spouse to express his or her frustrations in a wholesome manner that encourages a process that involves considering the problem in an organized manner. The poster can then read the ideas presented by other posters. These replies can help the original poster look at an issue from a variety of perspectives.

“When a person takes the time to express themselves in writing” notes family therapist Joyce Malone “that progress enables them to look at the problem from different angles and puzzle out possible alternative options.”

Ms. Malone also supports the concept of posting anonymously and waiting to read the thoughts of other Internet posters.”You have to have a thick skin if you’re going to put your problem on the Internet” she says “because some of the posters can be quite brash and offensive. But other posters are prepared to offer thoughtful suggestions that can really provide the kind of caring and support that the spouse needs, as well as some useful ideas about how to approach a problem in the marriage.

Not all Internet sites allow these unsigned postings but there are some which encourage married couples to express themselves directly on their site. Postings may include issues regarding problems with in-laws, differences of each spouse’s view of how to raise their children and the role of each spouse concerning household chores and each other’s home life vs. professional life.

The American Bus Association (ABA) announced recently that the War of 1812 Encampment – the Capture of Ft. Niagara, held this year on September 1 – 2, has been designated as one of the Top 100 Events in North America for 2013 by an experienced tourism industry selection committee. Inclusion in the Top 100 list, published as a supplement to the September/October issue of Destinations magazine, indicates that the War of 1812 Encampment offers excellent entertainment value to both tour groups and individual travelers from around the world, according to ABA. The event was submitted in the Spring of 2012 by Deborah Duerr, Director of Tourism Sales, Niagara Tourism & Convention Corporation.

American Bus Association Names ‘War of 1812 Encampment’ a Top 100 Event for 2013

With the release of the American Bus Association’s 2013 Top 100 Events in North America, ABA celebrates 31 years of the program. What began as a way for motorcoach operators to incorporate new product into their itineraries has grown to one of the most sought-after lists by travel professionals, motorcoach operators and the general public.
“The attractiveness of the War of 1812 Encampment as a don’t-miss entertainment value is only part of why its selection this year is such a distinction for Niagara USA,” said Peter J. Pantuso, CTIS, ABA’s president and CEO. “The real news here is that the War of 1812 Encampment has been recognized as a potential magnet for tourism dollars, at a time when reenergizing domestic tourism is so important to our spirit and our economy. The honor gives Niagara USA an important boost in visibility among professional tour planners.” more…

June 15, 2012 – Nik Wallenda has become the first person to walk on a tightrope 1,800 feet across the mist-fogged brink of roaring Niagara Falls.

A tethered Wallenda accomplished the feat on Friday night, saying he got through by “a lot of praying.” He also credited his concentration, focus and training.

Wallenda said the feat “will be with me forever” and the worst part was waiting for TV networks to be ready as he crouched on the starting platform. “There were 10 painful minutes sitting on that platform. My legs started falling asleep and cramping up.”

Asked what he would do next, Wallenda said: “I have permits to be the first person in the world to walk across the Grand Canyon so that’s a process we’ll start working on. I’d say within three to five years I’ll accomplish that as well.”

The seventh-generation member of the famed Flying Wallendas had long dreamed of pulling off the stunt, never before attempted. Other daredevils have wire-walked over the Niagara River but farther downstream and not since 1896. more…

Nik Wallenda “King of the High Wire” will dare to tightrope walk across the American and Horseshoe Falls

Nik Wallenda is one step closer to joining Niagara Falls daredevil folklore when he attempts to transverse Niagara Falls. It has been confirmed the date for “The Wallenda Walk at Niagara Falls” is June 15, 2012.

Niagara Tourism & Convention Corporation (NTCC) has partnered with the City of Niagara Falls, The Conference & Events at Niagara Falls, and Niagara Falls State Parks to put forth comprehensive information for “The Wallenda Walk at Niagara Falls”.

NTCC has launched a website where area residents and visitors will find general information about the logistics of the day, including where to watch the walk live. Additionally, tourists can access an online reservation system for lodging and accommodations, and there will be a continuously updated list of attractions and things to do throughout Niagara County. The site can be accessed at Walkthefalls.com or through “The Wallenda Walk at Niagara Falls” banner at Niagara-usa.com.

“We are very excited to welcome Nik Wallenda and the attention his spotlight will bring on the long-standing allure of Niagara’s tremendous power, and the entire area as a whole,” said Melissa Morinello, director of marketing and communications, NTCC. “Our entire staff will be working diligently to provide the most up-to-date information to residents and visitors who not only want to watch ‘The Wallenda Walk at Niagara Falls’ live, but to also enjoy the many attractions and events that will be happening surrounding June 15, 2012.

Wallenda is seventh generation of the legendary Great Wallendas, and set a Guinness world record October 15, 2008 for the longest distance and greatest height ever traveled by bicycle on a

high wire. It has been is lifetime goal to tightrope walk across Niagara Falls.

The new tour operator is Hornblower Canada Co., but they won’t take start running until 2014. The current owners, called Maid of the Mist Steamboat Co. are expecting to make an announcement this month about the 2012 season. Stay tuned.

This year is the bicentennial of the War of 1812 , and the Tragically Hip will be having a live concert at the Butler’s Barracks on June 30th, 2012. Thickets are on sale now. Rumour has it that the Niagara Legacy Council will be giving away tickets exclusively to facebook users. All you need to do is “Like” the Niagara 1812 Facebook page.

As the Family Day weekend approaches, you find yourself tentatively eyeing the dates on the calendar, wondering if your family will do something interesting this year. Well now you found the perfect activity, and you could enjoy it free.

On the list of unforgettable places for RV campers to visit, Niagara Falls should rank near the top. The experience of Niagara is like no other in North America, so why not use this quick guide to help plan your own exciting RV adventure to Niagara Falls?

RV Camping around Niagara Falls

Because you’ve chosen the convenience and comfort of RV camping on your Niagara Falls adventure, you’ll need to know where to find a great campground. Here’s a link to Niagara area campgrounds, sorted by region.

Whether you choose to camp at Youngstown, NY, about fifteen miles north of Niagara Falls, across the border in Niagara Falls, Ontario or at any of the scenic campgrounds in between, you’ll find the hosts friendly and the camping affordable.

What You Need to Know about Niagara Falls

The natural wonder known as Niagara Falls is actually made up of three waterfalls – American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and Canadian ‘Horseshoe’ Falls. They’re located on the US/Canadian border between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario on the Niagara River.

This marvelous bend in the river and the immense falls that inhabit it have drawn RV travelers for decades. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, visitors also have a front row seat to outstanding outdoor recreation and intriguing, historic attractions.

Here are some special places you won’t want to miss while on your Niagara RV camping vacation.

Queen Victoria Parkon the Canadian side gives unsurpassed views of the falls and is the perfect place to relax in the beauty of nature.

Goat Island, encamped between American and Horseshoe Falls, can be reached on foot, so park your vehicle and cross the bridge for an afternoon of hiking the trails, viewing the falls from above and taking the elevator to the bottom of the falls and Cave of the Winds.

Journey Behind the Falls, part of Ontario’s Niagara Parks, treats RV travelers to an up-close and awesome view from behind Horseshoe Falls. While visiting Niagara Parks, make time to walk the trails at the Botanical Gardens and be immersed in wonder at the Butterfly Conservatory. Those are just two of the experiences waiting to please visitors on the Canadian side of the falls.

For a view of Niagara Falls from the river, nothing beats a ride on the legendary Maid of the Mist. Catch the steamship at Maid of the Mist Plaza in Niagara Falls, ON or at Niagara Reservation State Park at Prospect Point in Niagara Falls, NY.

One more dazzling display no RVer should miss is the Class IV rapids in the Great Gorge north of the Rainbow Bridge. You can drive along the gorge, but the best view is on the Ontario side of the Gorge where vantage points on the White Water Walk provide the best vacation photos imaginable.

Many more adventures are waiting for RV campers at Niagara. Here’s a tip for getting the most for your money while on your RV adventure around Niagara Falls. Purchase a Niagara Falls and Great Gorge Adventure Pass that lets you ride the Maid of the Mist, hike the White Water Walk and visit several top attractions in Ontario’s Niagara Parks.

On both sides of the international border, Niagara Falls is a classic RV camping experience. Once you’ve come to the Falls you’re sure to fall in love and your RV camping dreams will be filled by Niagara!

Family Day Fest: Feb. 18-20, 2012
LONG WEEKEND!
Niagara Falls ON

The inaugural Family Day Fest is taking place during Family Day and Presidents’ Day long weekend, featuring the largest indoor amusement park, February 18, 19 & 20th! Boasting an impressive line-up of rides, jumping castles, obstacle courses, arcade games, attractions, carnival games and entertainment! Open from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. at the Scotiabank Convention Centre, 6815 Stanley Ave, the three-day event boasts plenty of attractions for the entire family.

Entertainment:JoJo the Clown and his sidekick Chuckles!

Bringing you one of the fastest balloon making routines you’ll ever see, Jo-Jo and Chuckles will have you howling with their comedic antics.

With the new luggage weight restrictions and high fees, its important to pack light and right. In the past I would just throw a bunch of clothes into my cheap luggage and not care too much. Now you have to care. You have to make sure that your luggage is light and you bring only the stuff you need. Take these tips from Fashion blogger Nelia.

[from Style Blog] I’m not going to claim to be an expert on packing or travel….BUT, I do travel a heck of a lot, and always…always without checking my baggage. In the past, I’ve had a few a lot of problems with lost bags, and ruined vacation outfits…which is obviously very stressful, and costly. I’ve finally had enough, and whether it’s a two-week European vacay*, or a weekend getaway, carry-on only is the only way I’ll travel. If you want to know how to travel light, without the hassles (and extra fees) that come with checking your bag, read on for my tips!

Good luggage will expand when you need it to, will keep your clothes safe and neat, is easy to wheel around, is light, easy to maneuver and to spot. It doesn’t even have to be expensive. Granted, I am pretty biased towards Heys luggage (which is hella solid, affordable, and proudly Canadian!). After 8 years of using my cute green suitcase, I finally had to retire it – simply out of vanity (as it’s still in great condition). I wanted a prettier, newer set, and this Journey Spinner** will hopefully do the job just as well, while looking sleek and stylish.

The St. Catharines (MOB)ilizers, a grassroots group promoting positive change in Niagara region and beyond, is holding another fundraiser in support of Free the Children. On Friday, Jan. 7th, area residents can lace up their skates from 10 a.m. until noon at the Niagara Falls Rink at the Brink. Admission is $5, skate rentals are $5 and you can also get your skates sharpened for $5. The group will also be selling hot chocolate and homemade backed goods, with all proceeds supporting Free the Children communities in Haiti.

Dougie Hamilton

Twice played for Team OHL in the Super Series against Russia (2010, 2011), recording three assists in two games in 2011.
Attended Canada’s National Junior development camp in August 2011.
Named the OHL and CHL Scholastic Player of the Year in 2010-11.
Twice named an OHL second team all-star (2009-10, 2010-11).
Won a silver medal with Ontario at the 2010 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.
Won the Ivan Tennant Award as top academic high school player in 2009-10.

Freddie Hamilton

Player Notes: Played for the OHL in the 2011 Super Series against Russia, recording a hat trick and finishing plus-4 in one game.
Attended Canada’s National Junior development camp in August 2011.
Represented Canada at the 2010 World Under-18 Championship, where he was named a Top 3 Player on his team.
Won a gold medal with Ontario at the 2009 World Under-17 Challenge.
Won the Ivan Tennant Award as top academic high school player in 2008-09.

Ryan Strome

Played for the OHL in the 2011 Super Series against Russia, recording two goals and three points in two games.
Attended Canada’s National Junior development camp in August 2011.
Named an OHL second team all-star in 2010-11.
Won a silver medal with Ontario at the 2010 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, recording two goals and three points in six games.

Mark Visentin

Backstopped Canada to silver medal at 2011 World Junior Championship, starting four games including the quarterfinal, semifinal, and gold medal game.
.923 SV% was fourth among goalies in tournament and 2.01 GAA ranked third.
Played for the OHL in the 2011 Super Series against Russia.
Attended Canada’s National Junior Team development camp in August 2011.
Named OHL Goaltender of the Year and first team All-Star in 2010-11.
Won a gold medal with Ontario at the 2009 World Under-17 Challenge.

Three culinary students battled it out at the TABASCO® Brand Street Junior Chef Meet at Humber College. Janine Hall, a culinary student at Niagara College took home the prize – $2,500 in cash, $2,500 in Garland Canada merchandise. She is now the undisputed hottest junior chef in Canada.

The Niagara Parks Commission is pleased to announce two eeerily fun family events taking place throughout October: Ghosts Behind the Falls at Journey Behind the Falls and All Hallow’s Eve at Old Fort Erie.

A haunting experience awaits you at Journey Behind the Falls. Niagara Parks has called upon its ghosts to greet you during this unique and limited time event. Suitable for all ages. Regular admission applies. Visit during the day and pay only $5 more for the event.

Experience the traditions of Halloween, brought to life through the ghosts of Canada’s bloodiest battlefield. A fun and frightening evening at the old stone fort will end with refreshments and the annual burning of a Guy Fawkes effigy at 8:30 p.m. Suitable for all ages. Be prepared and dress for any kind of weather. Regular admission applies. more…